Lecanto High School runs for CASA

Reagan Brady, Staff Writer – Colors for the Citrus County Abuse Shelter Association [CASA], a student-led program in Lecanto High School [LHS], hosted their 6th annual “School Rules” 5k and 2-mile fundraiser, August 17, where approximately 109 people participated. All proceeds gained from this event went directly to CASA, the non-profit shelter .

All participants of the fundraiser enjoyed the races, including the LHS cross country team. 55 of their members, including two of their coaches, ran the 5k.

LHS Colors for CASA presidents Anna Buettner and Savannah Bass pose on the field (Photo: Supplied).

Tracy Buettner, cross country coach, felt the running event was great training for the upcoming cross-country season.

“They have all done a wonderful job with the 5k, and it’s a great pre-season race for us!” Buettner said.

The club’s students were proud of the work they had accomplished, and felt participating in Colors for CASA gave them more opportunities to positively influence people.

“I love helping people that I know are close to me,” said senior Zoe Conti.

Colors for CASA is an original club that raises money and awareness for CASA by hosting fundraising events, such as races and booths at festivals; they also create tie-dye t-shirts, which is where their namesake originated from. The club is led by Freddie Bullock, a coach and physical education teacher at LHS. The members focus on making their teen audience aware of domestic violence as well as helping CASA to grow in order to increase home safety in Citrus County.

Many felt that Colors for CASA has been able to thrive and achieve as much as it has due to the dedication and efforts of its members as well as the coaches.

“The success of this club is a result of Coach Bullock’s hard work and the many student volunteers,” said Darrick Buettner, cross country coach.

Members visit Citrus County schools to inform students about safety and the significance and signs of abusive situations. LHS’s very own Colors for CASA continues to spread awareness of domestic violence while helping to raise money for a wonderful cause.